Zephyr Cove man sent to prison

A 53-year-old Zephyr Cove man was ordered to Nevada State Prison after he was terminated from a diversion program for felony drunk drivers.

District Judge Michael Gibbons said it was a "close call" but he was disinclined to give Douglas Nelson more chances after he was kicked out of a transitional living program.

He agreed to delay imposition of the sentence until after Nelson receives treatment for a medical condition.

Nelson faces up to three years in Nevada State Prison, with a one-year parole eligibility. He gave Nelson credit for 155 days in custody.

Nelson blamed "bad timing" for his inability to find work and pay his fines. He said he attended 12-step meetings six days a week and completed his community service.

He has been sober since his arrest for his third DUI on Nov. 5, 2008.

"I'm not a bad person," he said. "When I get out, you'll never hear from me again. I am not a troublemaker."